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Ah summertime, there are no schedules, no classes, no homework. Stay up late, sleep in, party and play. You have the freedom to do whatever you want, that is unless you need some money. Maybe you're a trust fund baby like Paris? Hey, even she and Nicole know a summer job doesn't have to be a nightmare.

Here are a few things to weigh out before you begin looking:

1. What would be an ideal summer job for me?
2. If I choose a job away from my neighborhood, how will I get there?
3. What days and hours are realistic for my commitment?

Work smarter not harder. If you'd planned to buff up and tan all summer long, take a physical job that keeps you outside in the sun. Love to shop? Pick your favorite store, or favorite mall. This works for everyone from the fashion conscious to the video game junkie. A little bit of passion goes a long way and your future employer will take note if you absolutely "love" shopping at their store. Sports fans, do you know you can work and see the big game for free? From golf to hockey, if there's a facility or outlet for the sport, there is potential for work.

Granted, a cushy job sometimes means longer hours at lower pay. If money is your thing, don't discount waiting or bussing tables. While your friends are waiting for Friday to get their paycheck, you'll always have a few bucks in your pocket from tips. For big money, sweat it out a few months at a local or family farm for a few months and reap the rewards the next few.

Want to be your own boss? There is always room for new entrepreneurs. Mow lawns, clean garages, wash cars, do handywork. If there are homes near you, chances are there are homeowners who could use a little help. Pass out flyers or post ad's in your local market, word of mouth and door to door will guarantee a thriving business by summer's end.

Use your imagination and create opportunities for your goals. Whether you want to be a welder or an actor, a summer job is the perfect opportunity to test-drive these ideas. Get on the phone, or show up at their door. You'd be surprised at jobs that can be created on the spot for an ambitious apprentice.

Don't spin your wheels too hard. With gas prices the way they are, location can be a big factor. Why take a job at the sandwich shop two cities away, when there's a subway hiring down the block? Give yourself some time to research and really canvas the areas closest to you. Spending ten bucks to make twenty just doesn't make sense.

While I do suggest using job search engines (like Monster) based on location, good old-fashioned face to face inquiries work just as well. The Internet is a wonderful resource for positions you may not have considered and openings you may not be aware of. You can also download and print an application for just about any food chain or retail store, fill it out at home, and bring it to the site you're considering.

Finally, be prepared to communicate. Your potential employer is going to want to know what days and hours you consider ideal for your situation. There is always a higher demand for people willing to work weekends and nights. Negotiate and compromise to get the days and hours that work best for you.

Good Luck! And have a safe and prosperous summer.

Learn more about this author, Tess Whitehurst.
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